Google has proposed a new policy framework to open up its 바카라 Store and advertising platforms in India to a wider range of real-money gaming (RMG) apps. The move is aimed at addressing antitrust concerns raised by Indian gaming platform WinZO and comes as part of a formal commitment proposal submitted to the Competition Commission of India (CCI).
The tech giant’s proposal would mark a shift from its current limited pilot program, which allows only daily fantasy sports (DFS) and rummy apps on the 바카라 Store. If approved, the new policy will enable all RMG apps that can prove they are “games of skill” to be listed and advertised on Google platforms.
Background
In 2022, WinZO filed a complaint with the CCI alleging that Google’s pilot program was discriminatory. It claimed that by allowing only DFS and rummy apps, Google had unfairly excluded other skill-based RMG apps, placing them at a competitive disadvantage.
Following a preliminary assessment under Section 26(1) of the Competition Act, 2002, the CCI initiated an investigation. Google has now submitted a “바카라 Commitment Proposal” and an “Ads Commitment Proposal” under Section 48B of the Act, in an effort to resolve the concerns.
Key proposals in Google’s commitment plan
Under the proposed changes, Google will:
- Allow all legally permissible RMG apps on the 바카라 Store, provided developers self-declare compliance with Indian laws.
- Require third-party certification from a “Recognised Third Party” to verify that the app qualifies as a “game of skill.”
- Accept certifying bodies such as the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), E-Gaming Federation (EGF), and Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS).
- Update developer policies including the Google 바카라 Developer Distribution Agreement and Developer Program Policies.
- Introduce a business model suitable for RMG developers.
- Enable certified RMGs to advertise on Google platforms in line with Google Ads policies.
These changes will be implemented within 120 days (for 바카라 Store inclusion) and 150 days (for ad access) after the CCI’s approval.
Certification and developer requirements
To be eligible, developers must self-declare their app as a real-money game permissible under Indian law. They must also obtain third-party certification from industry-recognised bodies. These third parties must meet objective standards, and their assessments must be credible and verifiable.
Additionally, developers must comply with all Google platform rules, including content and safety requirements.
Addressing payment concerns and user safety
Google clarified that the payment warnings users see during Google Pay transactions are not targeted at RMG apps outside the pilot program. These alerts are based on regulatory risk parameters defined by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and apply uniformly across app categories.
A Google spokesperson said the proposals reflect discussions with the CCI and the developer community, and aim to build a safer and more inclusive ecosystem for RMG apps.
Public feedback invited
The CCI has opened a public consultation on the commitment proposals. Stakeholders have until 20 August 2025 to submit comments, objections, or suggestions.
Roland Landers, CEO of All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), said, “Google’s proposal to open the 바카라 Store to all permissible RMG formats is a timely and welcome step toward building a more equitable and transparent digital ecosystem for the Indian gaming industry.
“As the RMG sector continues to evolve, consistent and fair platform access will be critical to its long-term sustainability. As the representative of the largest number of MSMEs in the online skill gaming space, we believe this move will help create a level playing field, reduce entry barriers, and give a much-needed boost to smaller and emerging operators. It will also provide further impetus to the growth of India’s online gaming sector, supporting job creation, digital inclusion, and the broader digital economy.”
Real-money gaming: a growing sector
According to a joint report by WinZO and the Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council (IEIC), real-money gaming contributed nearly 86 percent of India’s online gaming revenue in 2024, estimated at $3 billion. The proposed changes would allow Google to tap into this large and growing segment while offering app developers a more accessible distribution and advertising route.
While the policy changes are still under review, the CCI’s broader investigation into Google’s business practices continues. The outcome may have long-term implications for the digital gaming market in India.
